James L. Johnson Jr.

James L. Johnson Jr., affectionately known by family and friends, as “June”, was born on July 18, 1950 in Indianapolis, Indiana. James was the first of five children born to the union of James L. Johnson Sr. and Jenetta Johnson (Williams). James loved his family dearly. He shared a very special bond with his mother and often joked with his siblings that he alone had discovered the “key to stop mother from fussing: just agree with her and tell her she is right.” June had a distinct and infectious laugh and a loving personality, that brought his family years of joy and laughter. June was preceded in death by his father, James L. Johnson Sr. and his stepfather, John Henry Cotton.

At an early age, James professed a hope in Christ and was baptized at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. While a member, he served in the Youth Ministry and sang in the church choir. James later joined Truth Apostolic, under Cornelius Bullock, where he was again baptized in Jesus name and was filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost.

James attended Shortridge High School, where he was a member of the wrestling team. James graduated high school in 1968. On August 3, 1968, James married his high school sweetheart, Marcia Johnson (Johnson). To this union, three children were born: James L. Johnson III “Boopie”, Joseph L. Johnson and JaNita L. Johnson, his only daughter.

James attended Bishop College in Dallas, Texas and Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. He took courses in Religious Studies and the Social Sciences. James also served his country in the U.S. Army, and was stationed at Fort Ord, California. He completed Combat Training and Military Police Training. While in the Army, James was designated as a “Sharp Shooter” and received honors, including the “National Defense Service Medal.” He was honorably discharged. Upon his return to Indianapolis, James met Denise Oliver. June and Denise had two children, Christopher L. Oliver and DeWayne C. Oliver.

James relocated to San Diego, California, where he met DeLayne Treadwell and together they had one child, Jeremy Treadwell.

James loved to cook. His favorite, to cook and eat. was egg custard pie. James had a love for drawing. He expressed himself through drawings he shared with his family. James had a talent for basketball. James was not only an avid basketball fan, but he literally played basketball until he wore out his knees. James also had a passion for music and was known to always have the latest and greatest tunes.

June departed his earthly life on Wednesday, December 23, 2020, at 10:57 a.m. He leaves to cherish his memory, his sons: James L. Johnson III, Joseph L. Johnson, Christopher L. Oliver (Cree), DeWayne C. Oliver and Jeremy Treadwell; daughter, JaNita Johnson; grandchildren: Amber Johnson, Jordan Smith, Destiny Johnson, Alijah Oliver, DeWayne Oliver, Christian Oliver and Caleb Oliver; loving mother, Jenetta Johnson-Cotton; sisters: Betty Harrison, Diane Taylor and Roxanne Yates; his one and only brother Charles L. Johnson, who passed away December 31, 2020; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.